An Influence Synonym Guide – Definition, Antonyms, and Examples

According to the dictionary, influence is the ability or capacity to affect an outcome. A common influence synonym is “power.” It can also refer to the act of changing an outcome. Someone influential is someone who has a significant impact on related matters. 

Let’s delve into the essence of what it means to have influence.

Etymology and Definition of Influence

The word “influence” comes from the Latin word, “influentia“, which means “to breathe in.” It also refers to providing a hint or suggestion to another person.

Sentence Examples:

• The variables always influence the result.
• Goddard was an influential man. He was the leader of the organization, after all.

Influence Synonym – Exploring Words with Similar Meanings

Influence is an ability or factor that can change an outcome. Influence also refers to the act of exerting power over someone. Some similar terms for the word “influence” are: 

Control

When used as a noun, it refers to the ability to exert one’s will over a scenario, person, or object. It can also refer to the act of influencing how something behaves.

For example:

• He lost control of his car. He could no longer steer it.
• Please try to control your urge to speak out of turn.

Authority

Refers to the ability to lead other people and alter the course of something. It is an influence bestowed upon someone. It can come from rank, status, permission, or education.

For example:

• The President has the authority to run the country and make decisions for the people of the United States.
• You are not authorized to make changes in administrative settings.

Force

It is the ability to produce an effect by exerting physical pressure. It also applies to factors in nature or society.

For example:

• His urgent to succeed was the force behind his actions.
• There are forces that we cannot hope to understand.

Way

It is a noun that describes conditions, standards, or directions that lead to a destination or goal.

For example:

• He found a way to enter the facility without being seen. 
• He has a way of charming the audience.

Influence Antonym – Exploring Words with Opposite Meanings

When dealing with antonyms, always keep the spirit of the word in mind. It can be challenging to describe the absence of influence. 

Powerless

Refers to the state of having no power or influence. It can also refer to the inability to affect change.

For example:

• He was powerless when they took the magical stone.
• Many people were powerless against the might of the Romans.

Weakness

Weakness refers to the state of being too weak to affect a person, place, or object. Someone weak does not influence the outcome of events. It can also refer to a part of the body that is too weak to endure pressure.

For example:

• His weakness caused the community to disregard him.
• Tom’s weakness meant that he did not have influence.

Impotence

Refers to the state of having little to no effect on something.

For example:

• The impotence of the spell caused it to wear off quickly.
• The impotence of the new antiseptics allowed the infection to spread.

Takeaway

The main idea behind the word influence is the ability to make a difference. Don’t forget that English is an expansive language. There’s always a better word to use for the idea you want to describe. We hope that this guide was of good use to you.